Minnesota is known for its many lakes and major cities, with the Minneapolis–St. Paul area serving as the state’s main business center. However, the state’s harsh winters can cover vehicles with snow and road salt, making it harder for drivers to keep their license plates clean and visible.
Because of these conditions, some drivers may consider placing the front plate on the dashboard instead of mounting it on the bumper. However, you can get a ticket in Minnesota for keeping your front license plate on the dashboard. State law requires the plate to be mounted on the outside front of the vehicle, so placing it behind the windshield does not meet the display requirements.
Before deciding where to place your plate, it is important to understand does MN require a front license plate and what state law says about displaying it inside the vehicle.
What Minnesota Law Says About Front Plates
Minnesota issues two plates for most passenger vehicles, one for the front and one for the rear.
Under Minnesota Statutes § 169.79, when a vehicle is issued two plates, one must be displayed on the front and one on the rear. The plates must be mounted horizontally and upright, and they must be securely fastened so they cannot swing. They must also be kept clean and plainly visible.
Minnesota Statutes § 168.09 adds that plates issued to a vehicle must be displayed on it while it is driven on public roads.
Why a Dashboard Plate Falls Short
Many drivers think placing the plate on the dash is close enough, but it fails several parts of the display rule.
- Not securely fastened: A loose plate can slide, tip over, or fall to the floor.
- Not mounted on the vehicle’s front: The statute expects the plate on the exterior.
- Often hard to read: Glare, tint, and frost can block the numbers.
- Not upright or horizontal: A plate leaning against the windshield sits at an angle.
No Minnesota rule lets a dashboard plate stand in for a mounted one. Officers expect to see the front plate in its standard spot, and plate-reading cameras are set up to scan it there.
Can Police Stop You Only for This?
Yes. A missing or improperly displayed front plate is a valid reason for a traffic stop in Minnesota. Officers only need reasonable suspicion of a traffic violation, and a dashboard plate provides it. Once stopped, the officer may also check your license, registration, and proof of insurance.
What Penalties Can You Face?
A front plate display violation is usually charged as a petty misdemeanor in Minnesota. It is not a crime, but it carries a fine.
Under Minnesota Statutes § 609.02, a petty misdemeanor carries a maximum fine of $300. Court surcharges and local fees can raise the final cost.
Does a Ticket Affect Your Record?
A plate display ticket is not a moving violation, so it typically will not raise insurance rates the way a speeding ticket might. However, the citation still appears in court records.
Common Reasons Drivers Use the Dashboard
Most drivers do not keep the plate inside to dodge the law. The choice usually comes from a simple practical problem.
- The vehicle lacks a factory front bracket, common on some sports cars.
- The owner wants to avoid drilling holes in a new bumper.
- The old bracket broke in a minor collision or during snow removal.
- A dealership handed over plates without installing the front one.
Getting Your Front Plate Mounted Correctly
Moving the plate off the dashboard is usually quick and inexpensive. These steps help you meet Minnesota display rules.
- Inspect your bumper for existing mounting holes.
- Buy a bracket made for your make and model, including tow hook or adhesive options that avoid drilling.
- Attach the plate upright and horizontal so the numbers face outward.
- Remove any tinted covers or frames that hide the characters.
- Clean the plate often during snowy winter months.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota requires both plates on vehicles issued two plates.
- A plate on the dashboard does not meet state display rules.
- Front plates must be mounted outside, upright, secure, and readable.
- Officers can stop a vehicle for an improperly displayed plate.
- The violation is usually a petty misdemeanor with a fine of up to $300.
- Tow hook and adhesive brackets offer drill-free mounting options.
